Sydney unveils mammoth media centre

The organisers of the Sydney Olympic Games have already set one record - the largest media centre in Olympic history.

The 40,000 sq metre (430,000 sq foot) Main Press Centre (MPC) will house about 5,500 print journalists and photographers during the Games which run from September 15 to October 1.

International Olympic Committee officials praised the centre, which was built on the site of a series of cattle and horse pavilions at a cost of $25 million.

"In recent times I've seen some excellent press centres, but I don't know any that provides better facilities or layout," said IOC vice-president Kevan Gosper at the formal opening of the centre.

The MPC is located in Olympic Park about 20 km (12 miles) from Sydney and is within walking distance of 14 of the 28 sports taking place.

"The success of the Games is judged by the world's media," said MPC manager Reg Gratton.

"We learnt a lot from previous Games in what was needed in press operations and the MPC to ensure the media receive reliable and accurate information in purpose-built facilities."

There is a separate broadcast centre which houses the television and radio rights holders for the Games. When it becomes fully operational, it will be the largest functional broadcasting facility in the world.